Every cat with a blocked urinary tract was “fine” until it started to strain to urinate and either died from a ruptured bladder or had to be rushed to the hospital for emergency catheterization. ----LA Pierson
Are you wondering how much water your cat should be drinking every day?
Proper hydration is essential for your cat's overall health and well-being.
In this article, we will explore the importance of water intake for cats and provide information on the recommended daily water intake. We will also discuss the benefits of using water fountains for cats to encourage your cat to drink more water.
The Importance of Hydration for Cats
Water is essential for cats as it plays a crucial role in maintaining their overall health and well-being. Adequate hydration is necessary for cats to support various bodily functions, regulate body temperature, and ensure the proper functioning of organs. Increasing water intake can help prevent problems like urinary crystals, kidney disease, and other urinary tract disorders.As conscientious cat owners, it is important to provide our feline companions with constant access to clean and fresh water.
While traditional water bowls are commonly used, cat water fountains offer several benefits that can encourage cats to drink more water. These fountains provide a continuous flow of water, mimicking the natural sources that cats prefer, such as running streams. The flowing water not only attracts cats but also helps to keep the water oxygenated and free from contaminants.
This can be particularly beneficial for cats who are finicky about stagnant water or prone to urinary tract issues. By promoting increased water intake, cat water fountains contribute to better hydration and support overall cat health.
How Much Water Does a Cat Need to Drink?
The amount of water a cat needs to drink depends on various factors such as age, size, diet, activity level, and environmental conditions.
On average, a healthy cat should consume approximately 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day. For a 10-pound cat, this would translate to 7 to 9 ounces of water daily.
Factors Affect How Much Water Cats Drink
Water consumption in cats can be influenced by various factors. One such factor is their preference for running water over stagnant water, which stems from their innate instincts as descendants of desert-dwelling ancestors. Cats have a natural inclination to seek out flowing water sources, as they associate it with freshness and safety. This preference for running water can explain why some cats may be more inclined to drink from a cat water fountain rather than a static water bowl.
Another crucial factor that affects a cat's water intake is its diet. Cats on dry food diets typically require higher water consumption compared to those on wet or raw diets. Dry cat food has a significantly lower moisture content, ranging from 6% to 10%, whereas wet cat food contains around 75% to 85% moisture. This disparity in moisture content means that cats on dry food must compensate by drinking more water to maintain proper hydration levels.
The Benefits of Using a Cat Water Fountain
Cat water fountains provide a continuous flow of fresh water, mimicking a natural water source. Here are some benefits of using a cat water fountain:
a. Cat water fountain: Encourages Increased Water Consumption
The flowing water from a cat water fountain can attract cats and encourage them to drink more water. The movement and sound of running water often pique their curiosity, making them more likely to hydrate themselves.
b. Cat water fountain: Enhances Water Freshness and Taste
Water in a stagnant bowl can become stale and unappetizing to cats. Cat water fountains circulate the water, keeping it oxygenated and fresh. The improved taste can make cats more inclined to drink from the fountain.
c. Cat water fountain: Provides Filtration and Removal of Impurities
Many cat water fountains come with built-in filters that help remove impurities, such as hair, debris, and odors, from the water. This ensures that your cat is drinking clean and purified water.
d. Cat water fountain: Reduces the Frequency of Water Bowl Refills
Cat water fountains typically have larger water reservoirs compared to regular bowls. This means you won't have to refill the water as frequently, providing convenience for both you and your cat.
How To Choose The Right Cat Water Fountain
When selecting a cat water fountain, consider the following factors:
- Size and capacity to accommodate your cat's needs
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- Quality and durability of materials
- Noise level, ensuring it doesn't disturb your cat or household
- Availability of replacement filters or parts
Proper hydration is vital for your cat's health, and encouraging them to drink an adequate amount of water is essential. Cat water fountains offer a practical and effective solution to promote increased water consumption. By providing fresh, flowing water, these fountains can entice your cat to stay hydrated, reducing the risk of urinary tract issues and promoting overall well-being.
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